Pennsylvania Provides Guidance for Businesses Damaged During Civil Unrest

Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Jessica Altman has released guidance to Pennsylvania businesses damaged during the civil unrest across the state. The information is intended to assist business owners identify what is generally covered by understanding the terms in their policies and how and when to file claims.

“Damages caused by looting, vandalism or riots can be overwhelming and stressful, especially during this financially stressful time when so many businesses have been closed due to COVID-19,” Altman said in a Pennsylvania Insurance Department press release. “Businesses with damages should review their policies and file claims immediately.”

Standard commercial insurance policies typically include coverage for physical loss or damage to the insured business resulting from looting, vandalism and riots. Whether a specific loss will be covered depends on the actual language in the applicable policy and any coverage exclusions that may apply. The department recommends business owners familiarize themselves with the types of coverage that may be present in their policies, including benefits and coverage related to property losses, glass breakage, business and liability, the release stated.

“The department has worked closely with insurers throughout the COVID crisis, and we appreciate the flexibility that they have provided to Pennsylvania policyholders,” Altman said in the release. “Today, I am calling on carriers to again step up for the commonwealth and expedite claims processes to the extent possible to help businesses and communities in need.”

Source: Pennsylvania Insurance Department

Topics Pennsylvania